Core Strengthening for TMJ Disorder

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Loyola University

Disqualifiers: Recent surgery, Neurological problems, Pregnancy, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 6

Duration: 6 weeks

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial explores whether adding core strengthening exercises to standard jaw joint therapy can reduce pain and improve quality of life for people with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Participants will either perform core exercises alongside their usual TMD therapy or continue with standard TMD therapy alone. The researchers aim to determine if focusing on core muscles, such as those in the stomach area, can impact TMD symptom management. Ideal candidates have experienced jaw pain or problems in the last month and can commit to attending several physical therapy sessions. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to innovative research that could enhance TMD treatment options.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

What prior data suggests that core strengthening exercises are safe for TMD management?

Studies have shown that core strengthening exercises are generally safe and easy for most people. Research indicates that exercises like the Shirley Sahrmann progression engage the core muscles without significant side effects. Reports from past studies have not identified major safety issues, suggesting these exercises are a safe addition to physical therapy for managing Temporomandibular disorders (TMD). No serious side effects have been linked to core strengthening, making it a promising option for safely improving TMD symptoms. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about core strengthening exercises for TMJ disorder because these exercises aim to target the deep core muscles, which are not the focus of standard TMD physical therapy. While traditional treatments often emphasize jaw mobility, posture, and manual therapies, the core strengthening protocol uses dynamic movements to stabilize the spine and enhance core control, potentially providing a new angle for relieving TMJ symptoms. This approach not only incorporates a structured home exercise program with video support but also progresses through different levels, making it adaptable and engaging for participants. By potentially improving overall posture and muscle function, researchers hope this method will offer more comprehensive relief for TMJ disorder.

What evidence suggests that core strengthening exercises might be an effective treatment for TMD?

Studies have shown that core stability exercises might help reduce pain and improve the quality of life for people with temporomandibular disorders (TMD), which affect the jaw. Research suggests that strengthening the core can improve posture, potentially leading to less jaw pain. Although few studies focus solely on core exercises for TMD, existing evidence is promising. In this trial, one group of participants will receive core strengthening exercises in addition to standard TMD physical therapy. These exercises target deep muscles in the abdomen and back, which might help the jaw function better. Early findings suggest that including core exercises in TMD treatment could enhance its effectiveness. ^{1 3 4 5 6}

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for individuals with Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD), including Myofascial Pain Syndrome and TMJ disorder. Participants should be seeking non-invasive treatment options. The eligibility criteria are not fully listed, but typically include age, health status, and specific diagnostic criteria related to TMD.

Inclusion Criteria

Able to safely do physical exercises

Speak English or have access to a qualified interpreter

I have experienced jaw pain or issues with my jaw joint recently.

Exclusion Criteria

Are pregnant or become pregnant during the study

Have had lower back or pelvic health issues in the last 3 months

I am in physical therapy for movement issues not related to the study.

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants receive core strengthening exercises in addition to standard TMD physical therapy or standard TMD physical therapy alone

6 weeks

6 visits (in-person)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment

4 weeks

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Core Strengthening Exercises

Trial Overview The study compares two groups: one doing core strengthening exercises designed to engage trunk muscles and potentially reduce TMD pain; the other follows standard physical therapy for TMD. It aims to see if core exercises can improve pain levels, function, and quality of life in TMD patients.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Group 1: Core Strengthening + Standard TMD Physical Therapy Experimental Treatment 2 Interventions

Participants in this group will receive the Shirley Sahrmann core strengthening protocol, which involves progressive levels of dynamic movements designed to maintain a neutral spine and activate deep core muscles. Exercises begin in hook-lying or supine positions, with gradual progression through five levels, and may include upper extremity movements once core control is achieved. In addition, participants will follow a structured home exercise program with daily exercises (approximately 20 minutes), supported with printed instructions and video demonstrations through the MedBridge platform.

Group II: Group 2: Standard TMD Physical Therapy Active Control 1 Intervention

Participants in this group will receive standard physical therapy for TMD, including: Therapeutic exercises (e.g., Rocabado 6x6) for jaw mobility and posture. Manual therapy to restore normal TMJ and cervical spine joint mechanics. Soft tissue mobilization targeting masticatory and cervical muscles as clinically indicated. Education on jaw rest position, diet/chewing modifications, and avoidance of parafunctional habits. Neuromuscular re-education to improve TMJ opening mechanics, including deep neck flexor activation and mirror training.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Loyola University

Lead Sponsor

Trials

161

Recruited

31,400+

Loyola University Chicago

Collaborator

Trials

23

Recruited

13,100+

Citations

1. clinicaltrials.gov clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07226505

Effects of Core Strengthening Exercises for Treating TMD The study aims to determine whether integrating core stability exercises can reduce TMD-related pain, improve function, and enhance quality of ...

2. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37924356/

Is core stability training effective in temporomandibular ... This study investigated the effect of core stability training on pain, function, quality of life, and posture in individuals with temporomandibular disorder.

3. orthopt.org orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/Movement-Based%20Examination%20and%20Treatment%20of%20TMJ%20Updated.pdf

Movement-Based Examination and Treatment of TMJ ... Various types of physical therapy treatments have shown to be effective especially with focus on posture, active exercise and manual therapy.

4. aes-tmj.org aes-tmj.org/sites/default/files/content-files/SIC%20Webpage/FinalPubMed_Results_2020_From_ADA_.pdf

Evaluation of the efficacy of different treatment modalities ... Novel guide device for temporomandibular joint arthroscopy. Abboud WA. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2020 Sep;49(9):1217-1219. doi:.

5. bmcmusculoskeletdisord.biomedcentral.com bmcmusculoskeletdisord.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12891-025-09055-3

Effectiveness of cervical stabilization training in individuals ... This study found that CST in individuals with TMJ disorder improved TMJ symptom severity and enhanced cervical posture, mobility, and muscle ...

6. meddatax.com meddatax.com/clinical-trials/NCT07226505

Effects of Core Strengthening Exercises for Treating TMD Protocols such as the Shirley Sahrmann progression have demonstrated increased activation of key core stabilizing muscles. Emerging evidence ...